The Elysee Palace noted that the meeting takes place in a context marked by the risk of escalation in the conflict, which has entered its 25th day, following the US and Israeli aggression against Iran and Tehran’s response, which includes attacks on its neighbors allied with Washington and the continued closure of the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

This is the fifth meeting chaired by Macron since the outbreak of the conflict, and the first one since March 17.

France has maintained, to date, a non-belligerent stance, although it has acknowledged carrying out defensive actions in the region to support allies, notably the downing with Rafale fighter jets of Iranian drones launched against the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Regarding the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20 percent of the world’s oil production passed daily before the conflict, the French Government insists that it will not send escort vessels while the current intensity of hostilities continues.

US President Donald Trump called on the members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and other countries to dispatch warships and forces to the strategic passage to unblock it, but has not received the response he demanded.

Alice Rufo, Minister Delegate to the Ministry of Defense and for Veterans Affairs, underscored on Sunday that France will not participate under fire in an operation to open the Strait of Hormuz.

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